You've changed—your photos should reflect that. I help real people feel confident, magnetic, and seen through natural dating profile photos that feel like home to you and draw in the right kind of connection.

📍 Serving Minneapolis–St. Paul and available for travel

Online Dating Photographer in Minneapolis –
Natural Profile Photos That Help You Feel...

confident

genuine

attractive

authentic

seen

magnetic

approachable

like yourself

After meeting my husband on Bumble at 42, I realized firsthand how powerful the right dating profile photos can be. Today, I help other intentional daters do the same—by creating online dating portraits that reflect their real energy, confidence, and personality.

I spent years as a single mom, and when I re-entered the dating world in my 40s, I felt everything: nerves, doubt, and the vulnerable weight of putting myself out there. Updating my own dating photos didn’t just help me attract my partner—it helped me rediscover me.

That’s the spark behind my work.

I'm a Minneapolis-based dating app photographer with 15+ years of experience. I specialize in helping real people show up confidently and authentically on camera—especially if you’ve never liked having your photo taken. I blend natural light portraiture, expert guidance, and a background in emotional coaching to make every session feel relaxed, supportive, and even fun.

Because the right photos do more than just “get swipes.”
They tell a story.
They build trust.
They attract people who are aligned with the real you.

If you're ready to stop hiding behind outdated selfies or stiff studio shots, and start being seen in a way that feels true—you’re in the right place.

Why Clients Book Me (Hint: It’s More Than Just Great Photos)

Online dating photography that builds confidence—
and starts real connections.


"I showed up unsure of how I’d come across… but Shannon saw me clearly — and now, so do I. These photos feel like a turning point." – Minneapolis Client.

🎧 Calming Pep Talk for Pre-Session or pre-date Nerves ⟶

free audio

📝 Swipe-Ready Confidence Workbook ⟶

free workbook

✨ Free Post-Date Reflection Journal ⟶

free download

The Magnetic Portrait Experience

For those navigating a new chapter — and ready to be seen in their best light

Whether you're dating after divorce, rediscovering yourself after a major life shift, or just feeling done with stiff, awkward selfies that don’t reflect who you are—The Magnetic Portrait Experience is designed for you.

This isn’t just a photo shoot.
It’s a full, guided transformation—from how you show up on screen to how you feel when you do.

The Magnetic Portrait Experience is my most comprehensive offering. It’s created for singles who want intentional dating app portraits that align with their story, their energy, and their next chapter. Together, we’ll create images that reflect real confidence, magnetic presence, and the kind of authenticity that draws meaningful connections—online and off.

Good news: You don’t have to fake it, and you don’t need to “pose like a model.” You just need photos that feel true, confident, and naturally magnetic.
→ See the transformations in my full portfolio

“I feel awkward in front of the camera — I never know what to do with my hands.”

“I’ve been told I’m not photogenic… but I know that’s not the full story.”

“All I’ve got are selfies or cropped group pics — they don’t show who I am now.”

“I’m tired of being ghosted. I want to attract better-quality matches.”

“I want to look confident, magnetic, and like myself — not like I’m pretending.”

Tired of relying on blurry group shots, old selfies, or photos that don’t feel like you?
You’re not alone. Most of my clients come to me saying:

Not getting matches that reflect your worth?

No stiff poses. No guesswork. Just real photos that reflect you—in 3 guided steps.





How It Works (In 3 Simple Steps)



You’ll receive a full gallery of scroll-stopping photos that feel authentic, magnetic, and aligned with your real self. The kind of dating profile photos that spark better connections.

No pressure, no posing panic. I’ll guide you through every step in a relaxed, natural-light setting that helps you feel comfortable, confident, and even a little surprised at how fun it is.


We’ll chat about your dating goals, what makes you you, and how you want to come across in your photos. From wardrobe tips to location picks, this is where the magic starts.

Step 1: Let’s Align on Your Vision

Step 2: Your Confidence-Coached Photo Session

Step 3: Gallery Delivery (7–14 Days)

Want to see exactly how I guide you from nervous to ‘nailed it’?

5 must-have photos for a modern, magnetic dating profile — and how to start showing up with more confidence onlineand start showing up as your best self.

Not Ready to Book Yet? Start With This Free Guide →



    50+ 5 Star reviews
     

    Don't just take My word for it 

    Glen | Minneapolis, MN

    "I was in a rush to have a modern, high quality headshot for business. Shannon did an incredible job! She was very easy to work with, creative and made the whole experience enjoyable. We even did a few other casual (dating) shots taking advantage of downtown Minneapolis stores and restaurants as backdrops. Highly recommend!"


    Ryan | Roseville, MN

    "Shannon was great to work with from planning where the pictures would be taken through to taking the pictures. She did a wonderful job of getting me to smile and make me comfortable being the focus for an hour."

    Lynn | Wayzata, MN

    "I worked with Shannon to take photos for my online dating profile, and she was amazing! From answering all my questions beforehand to making me feel relaxed during the shoot, everything was seamless. The turnaround time was so quick, and when I shared the photos with my dating coach and group, the feedback was incredible—everyone raved about the quality and how stunning the photos turned out. Shannon truly captured my personality and beauty perfectly!"


    Carolyn, | Blaine, MN

    "Shannon did an exceptional job at my photo shoot for my dating app profile. She made the experience so fun and the photos turned out great. More than what I was hoping for especially as a women in her sixties. I have received many complements already.. beautiful, authentic, and tell a great story about me. Highly recommend!!"

    Joshua | Minneapolis,  MN

    "Shannon was great! She is very professional and wants to get exactly what you want out of your photos. She is also extremely friendly and makes the whole experience very easy if you're stressed about any of it. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for quality photography!"

    Tony | Mineapolis, MN

    "Shannon, You've performed an impressive feat, and not only taken pictures of me that I don't hate, but actually like, even smiling. If I run into people that need a similar flavor of service, I'll send them your way."

    Kerry | Mankato, MN

    "First off, Shannon was just amazing. She's very kind and easy to talk to. The overall experience was better than I could've hoped. She had her ideas but was open to any suggestions I had. She made me feel completely comfortable in the process. And the photos were outstanding. Highly recommend."

    Kevin | Minneapolis, MN

    "Shannon is an incredibly talented photographer. Her work is amazing, and it's the result of both her raw talent and the time and care she takes to ensure every detail is planned and her subjects are at ease. I would highly recommend Shannon for any of your photography needs!!!"

    Charlie | Milaca, MN

    "Shannon is an amazing photographer with a natural way of making anyone feel comfortable. I usually am not crazy about pictures, but she made my experience super easy, and a one-hour photo shoot only felt like ten minutes. You can instantly tell this is her passion and I wouldn’t recommend anyone else for high quality photos."

    Katherine | Brooklyn Park, MN

    "I had a great experience working with Shannon. It was easy to arrange for the dating photo session and the personal service was excellent. The photo session itself was wonderful, no awkward at all! I received my photos quickly, only a few days, and they turned out great! They were easy to download and now I can do whatever I want with them. Thank you, Shannon!"

    Ben | Bloomington, MN

    "Hey Shannon, 
    They turned out great, thank you!

    I was thinking I’d book you again for another 45 minute session but this time we could use a park or something and get some shots of me with my dogs?

    The added benefit being that I just enjoy having pictures of my 2 girls with me too."

    Kevin | Eden Prairie, MN

    "I am VERY impressed with your professionalism and personal touch! I am looking forward to meeting with you on May 15th."

    Felix | Rochester, MN

    "Shannon is an excellent photographer that helps you feel comfortable and makes the session go by perfectly. She was able to address everything I was looking for in photos and really brought out my personality in them!"

    Kevin B | Eden Prairie, MN

    "Shannon does such a wonderful job! I was very impressed with both her professionalism and positive personality. And best of all my photos turned out great."

    Twin Cities Client

    “I booked the Signature Experience and honestly didn’t know what to expect. Shannon helped me find outfits that felt like ‘me,’ guided me without making it awkward, and made the whole process fun. The photos captured more than a look—they captured how I wanted to feel.”

    St. Paul, MN Client

    “Before my session, I avoided dating apps because I didn’t think I looked good enough. Afterward, I had photos that truly reflected who I am — confident, joyful, and real. I started getting messages from people I actually wanted to talk to.”

    After hearing “I just need one good photo” more times than I can count, I knew people weren’t just looking for flattering angles—they were craving presence. Confidence. Photos that actually reflect who they are. That’s why I created a fully guided experience designed to help you show up as yourself—not some over-filtered version or someone you're not.

    Whether you're dating again after a long break or starting fresh with a new outlook, I’ll help you feel magnetic, relaxed, and ready to connect with someone who actually sees you.

    Sessions are fully guided, low-pressure, and built for real people—no modeling experience required.

    You Want Dating Photos That Actually Work. But You’re Not Sure Where to Start.

    REAL TALK FROM YOUR DATING PROFILE PHOTOGRAPHER NEAR YOU



    Your right match is out there—let’s make sure they meet the real you.





    And let’s be real... the apps aren’t exactly built to help you shine.

    Serving Minneapolis–St. Paul and beyond with confidence-driven, natural-light dating photography.

    Not Sure Where to Start?
    Here's a Quick Guide:

    Whether you’re newly single, starting fresh, or just tired of using the same old selfies — these sessions are designed to help you feel confident, comfortable, and genuinely proud of your photos.

    Perfect if you're just dipping your toe into dating photos or need a quick profile refresh.

    Essential Headshot Package

    Package 1

    💫 Quick, polished, and no-frills — ideal for first-timers or updates.

    📸 More time, more outfits, more looks — a relaxed pace with variety.

    $1399

    Ready to take your profile seriously and want more of a variety

    Signature Experience
    Package

    package 2

    ✨My most comprehensive offer — includes a wardrobe Zoom consult, location planning, guided posing, and mindset coaching. For when you’re really ready to glow up.

    You're craving transformation, guidance, and photos that truly reflect who you are now

    The Magnetic Portrait Experience

    package 3

    👉 Inquire about a travel session

    Destination Dating Photo Sessions

    ✈️ Now Booking:

    While based in Minneapolis–St. Paul, I frequently travel for sessions. Whether you're in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tucson, or elsewhere in the U.S., let's create dating profile photos that feel authentically you.

    Let me know where you’re located and we’ll work out a custom quote. I promise to keep it simple & transparent.

    Got Questions? 

    You're Not the Only One.

    ❓FAQ #1: I’m not photogenic and feel awkward in front of the camera. Can you help?

    Answer: 100%. That’s actually super common. You don’t need to know how to pose—I’ll guide you every step of the way with prompts, movement, and conversation that helps you relax and feel like yourself. Most of my clients walk away saying, “That was way more fun than I expected!”

    The "STAND OUT" & "THE PERFECT MATCH" packages include a Comprehensive Style/Prep Guide with a section on Mental Preparation & Authenticity.

    ❓ FAQ #2: What should I wear for my dating profile photo Session?

    Answer: Your outfit choices can absolutely make or break your dating profile photos—and yes, I’m here to help you figure it all out. Once you book your session, we’ll schedule a planning call to chat through your style, personality, and what vibe you want your photos to give off.

    Need extra help? I’ve got options:

    Package 1: Includes basic outfit guidance and a link to my go-to blog post for tips.

    Packages 2 & 3: Get access to my Interactive Style Builder (Style & Select) that gives you curated outfit ideas based on your preferences—no guesswork.

    Package 3: Includes a full Zoom wardrobe consultation, where we dive into your closet together and piece together a killer lineup for your shoot.

    If you’re ready to upgrade your wardrobe entirely, I can connect you with a local Minneapolis stylist who’ll help you look (and feel) like a million bucks. Just say the word!

    ❓ FAQ #3: Where will the photo Session take place?

    Answer: I offer sessions all around Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the Twin Cities area. We can shoot at cozy coffee shops, your favorite trail, a trendy urban spot, or even in your home if that fits your story. During our planning call, we’ll pick locations that highlight your personality and vibe.

    ❓ FAQ #4: Can I do multiple outfits or locations in one session?

    Answer: Yes—with a few things to note! Most sessions include outfit changes and multiple locations, but the amount depends on your package.

    Package 1 allows for 1–2 outfits and 1 location to keep things quick and focused.

    Packages 2 & 3 offer more flexibility with time for several outfit swaps and up to 2–5 locations.

    We’ll plan it all together ahead of time so your session feels smooth, intentional, and totally you.

    ❓ FAQ #5: Should I get professional hair and makeup for my dating session?

    Answer: Let's be real—do you need a glam squad? Not necessarily. Your dating profile is like your personal ad, and honesty goes a long way. If your everyday look is natural and easygoing, stick with that. The goal is for your photos to feel like you—so your matches recognize the person who shows up on the date.

    That said, if a little extra polish helps you feel confident in front of the camera? Totally valid. Just ask for a low-key, natural look that reflects how you typically show up IRL. One of my favorite client galleries includes someone who went full glam—and it still felt authentic because she owned it. It’s all about what makes you feel amazing.

    Need a referral? I’ve got trusted local hair and makeup pros in the Minneapolis area who understand the vibe we’re going for.

    ❓ FAQ #6: How long until I get my photos?

    Answer: I typically deliver your fully edited online gallery within 10–14 days after your shoot. If you need them quicker, just let me know—rush delivery is available!

    ❓FAQ #7: Do you help me pick the best photos for my dating profile?

    Answer: I offer profile photo selection support with Packages 2 & 3, where we’ll narrow down your gallery together to highlight images that radiate your personality, approachability, and confidence—the kind of photos that tend to spark real conversation.

    Package 1 does not include image selection assistance, but I’ll still provide you with a beautiful gallery of options that are all optimized to stand out.

    ❓FAQ #8: I see your website has mostly dating photos of men. Do you photograph women too?

    Answer: Absolutely! While my dating portfolio highlights many of the men I’ve worked with, I LOVE photographing women just as much. In fact, if you explore the rest of my website, you’ll see that many of my portrait, branding, and senior sessions are centered around incredible women. The magic happens on both sides of the lens.

    ❓FAQ #9: Do I have to buy the photos from my dating profile session?

    Answer: Nope—your images are included with your package! You’ll receive access to a private online gallery where you can download your high-res images directly. You’ll have a variety of looks to test out across your dating apps so you can see what attracts the right kind of attention (and sparks!).

    ❓FAQ #10: What is Dating Profile Photography?

    Answer: Dating profile photography is a specialized portrait service designed to help you look confident, natural, and like your real self—just elevated. These aren’t stiff, overly posed studio shots. They’re relaxed, authentic, story-rich portraits that help you stand out and spark real connections.

    💡 Learn more about what makes my approach different on my Dating Profile Photography Services page.

    ❓FAQ #11: How much does a dating profile photographer cost?

    Answer: That depends on what you’re looking for—but all of my packages are designed to give you high-quality, ready-to-use images that work across dating apps and personal branding platforms.

    💡 See current package options and pricing or reach out for something custom.

    ❓FAQ #12: How do I choose the best photographer for dating app profiles?

    Answer: Great question! You want someone who understands not just photography, but people. Look for a photographer who:

    Specializes in dating profile & lifestyle photography
    Knows how to make you feel relaxed and confident
    Helps highlight your unique personality in an authentic way

    📸 Check out my online dating portfolio and let’s chat about your goals.

    Let’s chat about your dating goals, your vibe, and what photos might make your next swipe feel more like a spark.

    Still wondering if this is right for you?

    You deserve dating photos that look like the best version of you—natural, magnetic, and a little elevated (without ever feeling fake).

    If dating apps have made you second-guess yourself, I’m here to make the photos part easy.

    With expert posing tips, simple styling tweaks, and a relaxed shoot vibe, you’ll get photos that stop the scroll—while feeling like you.

    Photos That Work Hard So You Don’t Have To

    AFTER

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    You don’t need to change who you are—just how you’re seen.

    "I wasn’t just surprised by the photos... I started getting better matches the same week."
    — Jess, 34, Minneapolis

    Dating Photo Before & After: The Energy Shift Is Real

    👇 See what happens when you pair confidence with connection

    Because it’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling like yourself and drawing in the right kind of attention.

    What Happens When Your Profile Finally Reflects You?

    "I met my girlfriend of almost 4 months pretty quickly after I updated my profile, she was the first person I dated. So my dating journey started with a bang and I have been with the same person since."


    We created a set of dating profile photos that felt true to Ryan—no stiff posing, no weird lighting, just real-life moments that captured his vibe.

    Right after updating his profile with the new images?
    Boom—he met someone right away.
    She was the first person he went on a date with. And they hit it off.

    While that first relationship eventually ran its course, the experience gave Ryan something even more important:
    💡 Clarity about what he was looking for in a partner.

    When he started dating again, his updated photos continued to work for him. He connected with someone new—and this time, the relationship feels stronger, deeper, and full of potential.

    “This one’s different,” he says. “It feels exciting. Intentional.”

    When Ryan first reached out, he was ready to get back into dating—but felt like his profile didn’t reflect who he really was. He wasn’t sure how to show his personality through photos, and he knew that first impressions on apps mattered. He wanted to look confident, approachable, and genuinely like himself.

    Ryan's dating journey started with a bang!

    Real story. Real results. Real love—twice.


    From Photo Session to Relationship: How Ryan Found Love

    💔 BEFORE: “I didn’t know how to show who I really was.”

    ✨ AFTER: The Right Photos Changed Everything

    ❤️ THE RESULT: Real Connection, Real Confidence

    "The photos have been well-received. I would say I'm getting more interest since they have been posted."

    Kerry's Profile Transformation: More Interest, More Opportunities

    Kerry Didn’t Just Get More Matches—He Got His Confidence Back

    A quieter approach. A clearer sense of self. A better way forward.



    💔 BEFORE: Burned Out by the Apps

    Kerry had tried online dating for a while, but the experience left him feeling discouraged. He was ready to show up more intentionally—but wasn’t sure how to create a dating profile that felt true to who he was.

    He didn’t want to look flashy or overly posed. He just wanted to feel confident and relaxed in front of the camera—and in his own skin.

    Our session focused on capturing Kerry doing things he actually enjoys—playing guitar, sporting events, relaxing in cozy, comfortable spaces, + simply being himself.

    The result? Images that didn’t just look good—they felt honest. Real.

    He posted the new photos… and the difference was immediate. He started receiving more interest, more messages—+ more importantly, he felt more grounded + self-assured in how he was showing up.

    After some time dating online, Kerry stepped away from the apps altogether—and met someone the old-fashioned way: in person.

    Now, he’s a few months into a relationship that feels good. Promising.

    While he keeps things private, he credits the photo experience for helping him feel more comfortable putting himself out there again—with clarity + confidence.

    ✨ AFTER: Photos That Felt Like Him

    ❤️ THE RESULT: Off the Apps. Into Real Life.

    “She just looked happy—like she was genuinely enjoying herself.”
    – Kevin, the man who fell in love with her

    When Carolyn decided to get back into dating, she knew one thing: first impressions on apps are everything. But she wasn’t sure how to show her true personality in photos.

    She didn’t want to look staged or overly polished—she wanted to look like herself: confident, happy, and genuinely inviting. That’s when she found Shannon Kathleen Photography.

    Together, we created a session that reflected who she really is:

    🌿 Her love for the outdoors
    🍳 Her passion for cooking
    😊 Her warm, joyful energy

    We mixed professional dating portraits with a few personal lifestyle shots for a profile that felt polished but real — that’s when everything shifted.

    Kevin spotted her profile on eHarmony + instantly felt drawn to her smile.

    • “It was like all the pieces of the puzzle just fit,” he said.
    • “Her photos matched exactly what she wrote in her profile. I could see myself in that life, too.”

    Their relationship began with a genuine connection- sparked entirely by photos that made Carolyn feel seen + made Kevin feel like he already knew her.
    Carolyn’s dating photos didn’t just show what she looked like.

    • They showed who she was.
    • Her joy. Her values. Her lifestyle.

    That’s what made her stand out—and what helped her attract someone looking for more than just another swipe.
    Today, Carolyn and Kevin are happily in love—a living reminder that great dating profile photos don’t just make you look good…

    They help you connect with the right person.

    And it all started with a genuine smile.

    How Professional Dating Photos Helped Carolyn Find True Love


    She Wasn’t Sure How to Show Herself Online… Until Her Photos Told the Story for Her

    💔 BEFORE: “How do I show the real me?”

    ✨ AFTER: Natural, Warm, and Full of Life

    ❤️ THE RESULT: The Photos Did the Talking

    🎯 THE TAKEAWAY: Your Photos Should Tell a Story

    👏 REAL LOVE, REAL LIFE

    From uncertainty to true love—and it all started with a smile


    Your story starts with the right photo.
    Let’s make it count.

    For the late-night conversations, the butterflies, the laughter you haven’t met yet…

    You’ve seen what happens when the right images capture the real you—
    Not just more matches, but meaningful ones.

    Photos that feel natural. Joyful. Intentional.
    The kind that say, “This is me—and I’m ready for someone who gets it.”

    Whether you’re new to dating or simply ready to show up differently, let’s create portraits that tell your story the way it deserves to be told.


    the Photos Aren’t Just for Your Profile—They’re for Your Future

    From profile photo prep to mindset tips, explore hand-picked resources that help you feel seen, empowered, and ready to attract genuine connections.

    for Singles in Minneapolis and Beyond

    Expert-Backed Dating Resources

    download the checklist ⟶

    Tired of guessing? This guided checklist helps you stay true to yourself, spot red flags early, and lean into connections that feel aligned, mutual, and meaningful.


    The Heart of Attraction Checklist


    get my free Guide ⟶

    A quick-hit PDF that walks you through the biggest mistakes + best moves when it comes to dating profile pictures. Perfect if you're DIY-ing or just want to avoid the common pitfalls before your shoot.

    Dating Photo Do’s & Don’ts Guide


    Listen Now ⟶

    Feeling nervous before a date? You’re not alone. This 3-minute guided affirmation helps calm your nerves + boost your confidence—so you can show up grounded, present, + ready to connect.

    FREE Confidence Boost Audio

    Show Me the Love Tips ⟶

    Tired of the swipe struggle? These eight flirty, feel-good rules will help you build a dating profile that actually sounds (and looks) like you—and attracts someone who gets it.

    Eight Rules to Attract Real Love with Your Dating Profile



    Explore Locations ⟶

    Not sure where to take your dating profile photos? This guide shares top Minneapolis and St. Paul locations—from urban gems to golden-hour trails—to help you stand out.


    Twin Cities Photo Spots You’ll Love

    Read the Article ⟶

    Discover how professional, authentic images can triple your matches and transform your dating experience. This guide reveals the science behind first impressions + offers actionable tips to elevate your profile.

    Why Great Photos Matter in Online Dating


    Browse My Must-Haves ⟶

    Explore the Full Resource Hub for Online Dating & Beyond →

    Want more tools, ideas, and resources?

    Boost Confidence with Professional Dating Profile Photography in Minneapolis & St. Paul

    Authentic. Eye-catching. Entirely you.

    Your dating photos should stop the scroll and feel like you. I specialize in capturing images that highlight your true personality—so you can feel confident, attract real matches, and enjoy the process along the way.

      I only email when it’s truly worth your time—like helpful photo tips, exclusive discounts, or early booking windows. No spam. No fluff. Ever.


      Real tips, honest updates, zero inbox clutter.



      Not another fluffy newsletter. Promise.


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        ✓ Walk away with actionable tips you can apply today

        ✓ Learn what to avoid—and what to aim for

        ✓ Learn the #1 mistake most people don’t realize they’re making

        Grab this quick-hit guide that breaks down what actually works (and what silently kills attraction) in your dating photos.

        Want more right swipes—and better first impressions?

        The Do’s & Don’ts of Online Dating Photos


        Spam sucks and won't happen here. 

          ✓ Designed to help you show up as your best self

          ✓ Simple but powerful self-awareness prompts

          ✓ Backed by psychology

          Download the Heart of Attraction Checklist—a free guide to the inner traits + subtle behaviors that spark deeper connections. Whether you're dating or rediscovering your confidence, this tool will help you tap into what makes you naturally captivating.

          Curious what truly draws people in? This checklist reveals it all.


          Unlock the Qualities That Make You Magnetic